Tennis player breaks down in tears during interview after defeating opponent and causing their retirement.

As the US Open came to a close, Jessica Pegula's emotions were running high. She had just defeated her close friend Shelby Rogers, effectively ending her career as a professional tennis player. The two American athletes had grown up together, playing in the same junior tournaments and now facing each other on the grand stage of Arthur Ashe Stadium.

As the match came to an end, Pegula couldn't hold back her tears. She embraced Rogers in a heartfelt hug, knowing that this would be the last time they would compete against each other. In her on-court interview, Pegula struggled to find the right words to express her emotions. "Oh gosh, I am going to get emotional," she said, trying to hold back her tears.

But as she spoke about her friendship with Rogers and how far they had come together, the floodgates opened. "I remember just playing 16 under Southerns with her and now we are here," Pegula said, her voice breaking. "We grew up playing juniors together, grew up in the same sections and it’s really crazy, now we get to play a night match at [Arthur] Ashe."

Despite the intense competition on the court, their bond remained unbreakable. Pegula went on to face Sofia Kenin in the second round, but her thoughts were still with her friend and opponent, Rogers. "Obviously, she has had some amazing wins here, amazing results here at the US Open," Pegula said, acknowledging Rogers' achievements.

But more than anything, Pegula was grateful for their friendship and the memories they had created together. "I am sure I’ll see you in Florida and we’ll take our dogs on more playdates," she said, looking at Rogers. "I’ll get to hang out with you and John [Slavik] and congrats to you and your family and everyone’s that here and your team."

For Rogers, the emotions were overwhelming as she reflected on her career and the journey that led her to this moment. "The main one is just gratitude," she said. "Gratitude for all the amazing moments and some tough ones on this court too. But really special that I’m able to play here one more time."

She also thanked her team and everyone who had supported her throughout her career. "My team, everyone behind the scenes that’s been there for decades," Rogers said. "It’s been a lot of years in the making."

As the two friends said their goodbyes on the court, it was clear that their bond would last far beyond their professional tennis careers. And as Pegula continued her journey in the US Open, she would always carry with her the memories and the friendship that she shared with Shelby Rogers.

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